Question

A 27-year-old junior doctor sustains a needlestick injury from a needle used on a patient whose HIV status is unknown. What is the most appropriate initial step?

Accepted Answer

Encourage bleeding, wash with soap and water, assess risk and consider HIV post-exposure prophylaxis

Answer

Reassure and no further action

Answer

Apply a tourniquet above the injury

Answer

Immediately start lifelong antiretroviral therapy

Answer

Prescribe a week of oral antibiotics

Practice question

A 27-year-old junior doctor sustains a needlestick injury from a needle used on a patient whose HIV status is unknown. What is the most appropriate initial step?